General GUINEA

GENERAL (See Plan) FRESH WATER: Available.

FUEL: Light diesel available, subject to prior arrangement.
SERVICES: None.
GEO-POLITICAL: DRY DOCK: One floating dock with lifting capacity of 700 tons.
Capital City: Conakry.
Nationality: (noun) Guinean, (adjective) Guinean. REPAIRS: Minor repairs possible.
Population: 9,690,222. POLICE/AMBULANCE/FIRE: Contact Harbour Master.
COMMUNICATIONS: FIRE PRECAUTIONS: Special fire service for tankers and ships carrying
International Direct Dial Code: 224. IMDG – goods.
Number of Internal Airports: 5. SECURITY/GANGWAY: Compulsory and arranged by vessel’s Agent.
Major Languages Spoken: French (official); note - each ethnic group has Note: The port employs a large number of trained security personnel which
its own language.
is partly uniformed. In case of need Master may contact the Co-ordinator of
ECONOMY: the ‘‘CUSP’’.
Currency: 1 Guinea Franc (GNF) of 100 Centimes. Piracy: Despite efforts undertaken by the Port Authority and other local
Main Industries: Bauxite, gold, diamonds, alumina refining and light authorities to eliminate piracy, Masters are well advised to protect their
manufacturing and agricultural processing industries. vessels and cargoes against attempted theft.
ENVIRONMENT: TIME: GMT.
Territorial Sea: 12 n.m.
Other Maritime Claims: Exclusive Economic Zone: 200 n.m. LOCAL HOLIDAYS: New Year’s Day (1 January); Easter Monday;
Coastline Extent: 320 km. Labour Day (1 May); Anniversary of 2nd Republic (3 April); Liberation Day
Climate: Generally hot and humid; monsoonal-type rainy season (June to (25 May); Assumption (15 August); Independence Day (2 October);
November) with southwesterly winds; dry season (December to May) with Christmas (25 December).
northeasterly harmattan winds. Varying holidays which depend on the position of moon: Ramadan, end
Natural Resources: Bauxite, iron ore, diamonds, gold, uranium, of fasting; Tabaski, Pilgrimage Day at Mecca; Mahouloud, Day after Prophet
hydropower, fish and salt. Mahomed’s Birthday.
Natural Hazards: Hot, dry, dusty harmattan haze may reduce visibility Work during holidays available, but subject to negotiation with stevedores.
during dry season. CONSULS:
Terrain: Generally flat coastal plain, hilly to mountainous interior. Embassies:
Algeria Japan
Bulgaria Korea
CONAKRY: 09␥ 31' N 13␥ 43' W (See Plan) Canada Liberia
China Libya
DOCUMENTS: Congo, D.R. of Mali
6 Crew Lists Cuba Morocco
6 Passenger Lists Czech Republic Nigeria
2 Stores Lists Egypt Romania
2 Lists of Medicines and Drugs France Senegal
2 Lists Crew Declaration (personal effects) Gabon Sierra Leone
7 Manifests of Cargo (if any) Germany Saudi Arabia
Port Clearance from last port of call Ghana Switzerland
2 Lists of Dangerous Cargoes (if any) Guinea Bissau Syria
3 Bills of Lading for LCL - Containers Iran U.S.A.
2 Loading Plans Italy Yugoslavia
1 Derat Certificate Consulates:
3 Lists of Weapons and Ammunition (if any)
Belgium Netherlands
Documents to be presented on request:
Brazil Norway
Log Book
Cape Verde Spain
International Health Certificate
Seamen’s Books Denmark Sweden
References for Port State Control Greece Togo
Also see ‘‘Shipmaster’s Report’’ dated November 1997. Haiti Tunisia
Lebanon United Kingdom
CERTIFICATES: Derat Certificate, Log Book, International Health
Certificates of Crew. TELEPHONES: Not possible to place telephones on board except at Berth
MAX. SIZE: No. 9.
Bulk carriers for alumina: 518 ft. length. NEAREST AIRPORT: International airport Gbessia about 15 km.
Bulk carriers for bauxite: 655 ft. length. distance from port. International connections via Air Afrique, Aeroflot, KLM,
Tanker for crude oil: 655 ft. length. Sabena and UTA. Local connections are offered by Air Guinee and others.
Tankers for light fuel: 518 ft. length.
Other vessels (Ro/Ro, CUSTOMS: Tobacco, 200 cigarettes out of bond. Wine and/or spirit, 1 litre
Container, Conventional, etc.): 655 ft. length. of spirit and 1 litre of wine per day out of bond.
DENSITY: 1016 in the port with particular relation to state of tide. SHORE LEAVE: Crew allowed ashore.
RESTRICTIONS: Tankers taken in/out during daytime only. Exceptions REPATRIATION: All facilities exist for effecting crew changes and
during night-time are considered on special application, to be rendered to arranging repatriation to Europe and other places.
Port Captain. IDENTIFICATION CARDS: Seaman’s Book necessary.
The entrance channel is 150 m. wide and has a depth of 9.5 m. (LLW). SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: February 1992 (Updated 2000).
PILOTAGE: Compulsory for all vessels over 20 m. in length. Pilot meets Agent: Office hours: 0800 – 1200 and 1300 – 1630.
vessels at Conakry Buoy (Lat. 9␥ 27.3' N., Long. 13␥ 44.05' W.). The Agents will occasionally use the Port Control VHF to contact vessels
Advise Port Captain of ETA by Telex No. 22276 PAC GE. at anchor.
ANCHORAGES: Safe deep anchorage in inner and outer roads. Weekends: From 3 February 1992 official weekends are from 1200 hrs. on
PRATIQUE: Valid yellow fever inoculation certificates. Friday to 0800 hrs. the following Monday.
VHF: Conakry Radio on Channel 16. Currency: The Guinee Franc, exchange rate in May 2000 was 1,750 F.G. ␦
TUGS: 2␺1,400 kW. tugs (27 tons bollard pull). Tugs are compulsory for US$ 1.00. Local currency can be obtained ashore, and US Dollars are
all vessels over 50 m. LOA. Tugs normally connect to starboard side. Ship’s generally acceptable.
lines used. US Dollars were obtainable from the Agents, but were a long time in coming
BERTHS: forth.
Dredged Communications: The local coast radio station operates infrequently. The
Berth Length Depth Priority Use vessel was answered by Port Kamsar Radio, but they will accept messages
No. (m.) (m.) for that port only. VHF communication with the Port Control is possible, but
Container often it takes a long time to get a reply. The Port Control and Pilots will often
Terminal 269 10.5 Container Vessels request vessels at anchor to contact vessels approaching the port for ETA.
00-01 350 10.0 Alumina/Refrig. The Pilots work on VHF Channels 10 and 12, but do not have a very good
02-05 480 8.0 - 8.5 Commercial Piers transmitter, and messages may be relayed through the Port Control.
06 155 7.0 Barge Landing Approaches: BA Charts No. 601 and 395.
07 160 8.0 Fish Jetty Approaching from the south, Iles de Loos are easily identified on radar,
08-09 300 11.0 Bauxite (OBK) and in clear weather Boulbinet Lighthouse, white tower with red top, is
10 190 10.0 Oil Jetty conspicuous by day, but at night is not easily seen against the background
lights when close to the 014␥ bearing, and it was noted as occulting
Note: Depths refer to Port Zero (lowest low water). 20 seconds in early February and occulting (2) 10 seconds in late February
TANKER FACILITIES: Berth No. 10: Length 190 m. Depth 10.0 m. and March. Except for the 014␥ bearing, the red and white sectors were not
Berth is being equipped with new shore connections. verified.
STEVEDORES: Working Hours: Ile Tamara Light was as charted.
1st shift: 0800 hrs. to 1800 hrs. The beacon on Pte. du Tonnelier was not seen.
2nd shift: 2000 hrs. to 0600 hrs. The light fl. 6 short and 1 long has been re-sited on the end of the south
Overtime: Any work on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays are subject to breakwater, and has a period of 15 seconds. This light is shown from a lattice
following overtime surcharges: tower with topmark two cones point down and a yellow and black square at
1st shift: 0800 hrs. to 1800 hrs. + 60%. half height of the tower.
2nd shift: 2000 hrs. to 0600 hrs. + 100%. The works in progress at the south breakwater head do not seem to have
Hatches: Normally by crew. Stevedores if requested by Master. progressed, except for re-siting the light, and if anything has been done, it
MEDICAL: Advance notice recommended. Medical service and hospital is all below water.
facilities available.

See guidelines for compiling and submitting information (page xi) 1115
GUINEA Conakry
Buoys: The buoys were found to be generally within one cable of the charted watchmen to be mobbed by the crowd and even man-handled when they
positions and all are fitted with lights, the characteristics were not verified. attempt to stop some of the thieves.
On berthing, Buoy No. 8 was missing, but had been replaced out of Theft in the docks is considerable and especially when the small local
position, closer to mid-channel. ferries, which attract an even larger crowd than other vessels, are alongside,
Buoy No. 5 was towed in damaged and replaced by an unlit float. it is not safe to walk on the dock if one is carrying anything worth stealing.
By departure in mid-March, Buoys No. 5 and 8 had been replaced in At night when no cargo is being worked, it is fairly safe to go ashore to
position, but the Fairway Buoy had been towed in for repair and was replaced the gate to take a taxi into town, but there will always be some risk.
by the unlit float. It is also unsafe to walk in town, even in daylight.
The southerly BYB Buoy in the harbour was unlit. Shore Passes: The practice is for crew members to take their passports
All buoys are pillar buoys, red to port and green to starboard inbound. ashore and exchange them with the officials at the gate for shore passes.
The work of replacing the buoys was carried out by the contractors who Shore passes are arranged by the ship’s Agent. The cost (one payment) is
are carrying out works in the port. between US$ 100-200 for all the ship’s crew members (May 2000).
Anchorage: Vessel anchored with Pte. du Tonnelier bearing 340␥␺2.25 miles, This was not explained to the vessel on arrival, as when passes were
in company with other vessels in the general vicinity and lay comfortably with requested we were told that they were unnecessary. This appeared to be
5 shackles in 17.0 m. the case until after a month in the port, with crew members regularly going
Anchorage was changed at the request of the Port Control, shortly before ashore without being stopped, a group of four seamen were stopped returning
berthing to be ready for the Pilot, and a position 3 cables SW of the Fairway to the vessel, and when requested, handed over their passports to the officials
Buoy was chosen. In this position, there was 4.0 m. underkeel clearance at who then refused to give them back until some money had changed hands.
low water with a draft of 8.8 m. This is the practice for most minor infringements of regulations with always
Later the vessel was anchored by the Pilots, 3 to 4 cables SW of Buoy the threat of long delays if the official channels are followed.
No. 4 and had 2.0 m. underkeel at 7.3 m. draft, although there would appear Fresh Water: Available from the dock, but the pressure is very low and, I
to be more water to the west of the buoyed channel than charted, it is not feel, that only the threat, that the vessels would be unable to move off the
recommended to anchor here without local knowledge. berth if required, provided any water at all.
Pilotage: The Pilot boards from a large launch in the vicinity of the Fairway Deep sea vessels provided with fresh water were supplied through a meter,
Buoy, and will board at anchor if the vessel is close to the buoy. whilst regular small fishing vessels and ferries were supplied direct from a
Communications are not the best, and the vessel was advised that we stand-pipe which would indicate that if water is required, some money should
would take the Pilot after a ship had sailed. However two vessels sailed change hands. No guidance was given on this point by the Agents. Quality
before the Pilot boarded, and a third vessel sailed before we were able to is poor and not recommended.
pick-up the anchor. It is as well to remain anchored until the Pilot boards, as Garbage Disposal: This service is available and generally unofficial. At a cost
there is not room to pass in the channel. of US$200.00, the vessel was kept garbage-free and sanitary for the 39 days
Pilotage is on a 24 hour basis and not restricted to daylight hours. The stay by the same man who was able to supply only a small quantity of fresh
Pilot will leave on departure at a convenient position in the channel. water.
The Pilots request meals.
Pollution: During the dry season all berths are subject to a considerable
Depths: The Pilot confirmed that the depth was as charted, and a minimum
quantity of dust from the alumina berth and the cement clinker berth.
sounding, at high water on a 3.3 m. tide with a draft of 8.8 m., of 3.0 m. was
Throughout the vessel’s stay there was a continuous heavy oil slick on the
obtained in the buoyed channel.
surface of the water.
Berths: The area noted on the chart as being reclaimed has almost been
completed as a container berth, some work remains to complete the paving This oil slick may have come from a vessel which was reported to be a
at the landward side. This new berth has been in use since April 1992 and fishing vessel, which was lifted from the water on the corner of Berths
has good fendering on the face and a bollard spacing of approximately No. 7/8 in the hours of darkness, by an extremely large floating crane, as
15.0 m., except at the southern end, where there is a large gap in the bollards after this had left, the quantity of oil seemed to be reduced.
after the first two for Ro/Ro stern ramp. No attempt had been made to contain or clean up the slick.
Berth No. 0 is reserved for loading alumina. The dust from this berth, when Cargo Working: Discharging 10,900 metric tonnes of bagged rice was
a vessel is loading, is very heavy, and with the wind off shore will obscure intermittent as vessel had to wait for Bill of Lading to be produced.
the port entrance. When this vessel berthed with a southerly wind blowing, Normal working hours are from 0800 1800, and on a good day it would be
it was not possible to see the forecastle from the bridge at 147.8 m. Alumina possible to obtain 37.5 tonnes per gang hour. In practice a rate of
pollution covers the dock in a decreasing quantitiy up to Berth No. 4, as it 25.34 tonnes per gang hour was achieved.
indeed also covers most of the city, including the tourist hotel and government Rice is an important commodity in Conakry and everyone considers it their
buildings. right to take some.
Berth No. 1 is used for discharging bulk cargoes, mainly cement clinker, In spite of port watchmen and watchmen employed by the stevedores, a
and also for general cargo and containers. There is a conveyor system on considerable quantity is lost, and it would appear that there is a well organised
this berth for carrying cement clinker direct to the storage shed, and cement system for stealing loose rice. Every endeavour was made to stop the theft
vessels take priority. of complete bags and mostly only loose rice was lost. In May 2000, it has
Berths No. 2 to 4 are for general cargo and containers. been reported that further security measures have been taken.
Berths No. 5 to 7 are for small crafts, fishing vessels, etc. with a small area General cargo and bulk vessels do not appear to be worked during the
reserved for naval gun boats and repairs with a small floating dock for fishing hours of darkness, but container vessels are worked round the clock.
vessels. Ship Chandlers: There are two chandlers in the port and although the price
Berth No. 8 is for loading bauxite, and Berth No. 9 for bulk carriers. Tanker list for the one used was lower than the other, service was not particularly
berth at Jetty No. 11. good.
Bollard spacing on Berths No. 0 to 4 is approximately 24.0 m. with some Prices of all stores and provisions are high and quality is not very good.
removed for Ro/Ro ramps. Fendering is poor with an occasional old tyre Deck and engine stores are available but prices are very high for these
hanging from the odd bollard. items and should be avoided.
There are no cranes on the berths and no provision for cranes on the new SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: December 1994 (Updated 2000).
berth. Anchorage: The anchorage is near the Fairway Buoy. At night-time, vessel
Berth numbers are taken from the BA Chart and may not be the same should weigh anchor and proceed 20 miles offshore and drift with only
numbers as used by the Port Authority. navigation lights on.
Port Congestion: Of a total of approximately 1,550 m. of deep water berth, Watchmen: When alongside, vessel should employ 10 watchmen. In
320 m. are not due for use until March 1992, 200 m. are reserved for alumina May 2000, it has been reported that this is no longer the case.
loading and the amount of alumina on the dockside makes this berth All doors should be locked and welded where possible. All lifeboat
unsuitable for any other cargo. 180 m. are given priority for cement clinker equipment and electric plugs and anything else that is moveable should be
discharge and 300 m. are reserved for bauxite and tankers. The remaining locked away.
370 m. are available for other cargo vessels, with container vessels taking Berthing: There are large tyre type fenders at Alumina Berth (Berth No. 0-1).
priority, and vessels already on the berth are required to move off to Radio: No communication with Conakry Radio. Only the Pilot’s VHF is
accommodate them. operating (occasionally).
Inevitably there is a considerable amount of delay time involved for general
Cargo: Discharged 15,000 tonnes of caustic soda at maximum pressure of
cargo working.
3 – 4 kg. The hose was in bad condition.
Gangway: Once alongside, ship’s gangway must be landed, having safety
Note: The shore personnel have to be very careful because if the caustic
net, securing ropes and rat guards in place.
soda comes into contact with their skin it will bleach it.
Port Officials: Customs, Immigration, Port Health and Port Authority (10 or
more persons) board the vessel on berthing. Soft drinks and beer are required SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: November 1997.
by all. The following documents are required:
Formalities are generally easy going and informal provided the 6 Crew Lists
entertainment is acceptable, and searches were not carried out. 2 Bonded and Provision Stores Lists
It is as well to have a supply of cigarettes on hand for port officials, Port 2 Ship’s Stores Inventories
State Inspectors and Radio Inspectors, who will board the vessel during the 2 Personal Effects Declarations
first working period after berthing. 4 Dangerous Cargo Lists
Port State Inspectors require all certificates including Officers Certificates 4 Narcotics Lists
of Competancy and query any minor differences in documents. 6 Ports of Call Lists
The Radio Inspector requires all publications to be up to date including 1 Vaccination List
the ITU Manuals. 1 Maritime Declaration of Health
Pirates: Whilst at anchor, a number of traders approached during daylight, 4 Stowaway Lists
but did not attempt to board, and went away when given no encouragement 4 Passenger Lists
to do business. 4 Animals Lists
At night two of the occupants of a canoe boarded by climbing the anchor 4 Kroo Boy Lists
cable and unscrewing the hawse pipe cover, but left empty handed when
4 Parcel Lists
challenged by the ship’s watchmen, and a second canoe left when ship’s
staff appeared above them. 4 Arms and Ammunition Lists
Storerooms were welded up on arrival, and after the first boarding, hawse 4 Mail Lists.
pipe covers were welded in place. Dangerous Cargo List and Crew List must be sent 48 hours prior to arrival.
Alongside the Berth: During cargo working of any vessel and particularly AUTHORITY: Port Autonome de Conakry, B.P. 805, Conakry, Republic
rice vessels, a large amount of traders gather round the discharged cargo of Guinea. Tel: +224 41.27.37. FAX: +224 44.45.64. Telex: (0995)
and in spite of watchmen employed by the stevedores and port police, a 22276 PAC GE. Contact: Aliou Diallo, General Manager. Captain Sayon
good quantity is spirited away. It is not uncommon for the police and Oulare, Port Captain.

1116 Readers are encouraged to send updates and additions (page xi)
Port Kamsar GUINEA
PORT KAMSAR: 10␥ 39' N 14␥ 37' W (See Plan) To the Westward of the Rio Nunez entrance are the Compony Shoals and
Conflict Reef. These are screened by a series of light buoys and vessels
approaching from the West should keep them well on the port hand. (See
LOCATION: Port Kamsar, formerly known as Kakande, is located on the ‘‘Buoyage System’’ below and ‘‘Plan’’).
East bank of the Rio Nunez river and is approximately 17 km. from the sea.
Another prominent feature is Gonzales Rocks on the starboard side close
Charts of the Area Are as Follows:
British Admiralty: to the entrance to Rio Nunez. These rocks are now marked by a light and
600 Cacheo River to Iles des Loos. Racon. A light buoy is positioned screening the rocks and is identified as
1560 Approaches to Rio Nunez. Buoy No. VII.
1562 Port Kamsar and Approaches. Vessels proceeding to Port Kamsar should anchor and await the arrival of
United States Naval Oceanographic Office: the Pilot in the area bounded by Latitudes 10␥ 26' N. and 10␥ 28' N. and
51580 Ponta Caio to Cap Verga. Longitudes 14␥ 44' W. and 14␥ 46' W.
Service Hydrographique et Oceanographique de la Marine: Kamsar Buoyage System: Approaches to Rio Nunez – Sea Buoys
5931 Du Rio Grande Aux Iles des Loos. Shape – Colour Position Characteristic Visibility
6148 Embouchure du Rio Nunez. No. N. W. (miles)
6228 Acces au Rio Nunez. I Red Platform 10␥ 09.4' 15␥ 12.1' Fl.(4) 15 secs. Racon 7
II Red cylindrical 10␥ 11.4' 15␥ 06.8' FL. 5 secs 6
6288 Rio Nunez abords de Port Kamsar.
III Red cylindrical 10␥ 13.5' 15␥ 01.5' FL.(2) 10 secs. 6
DOCUMENTS: On arrival, the following officials will come aboard IV Red cylindrical 10␥ 16.8' 14␥ 56.3' FL.(4) 10 secs. 6
alongside: V Red cylindrical 10␥ 20' 14␥ 51.2' FL.(3) 10 secs. 6
2 Agents from C.B.G. Agency. VI Red cylindrical 10␥ 25.5' 14␥ 47.5' FL. 5 secs. 6
1 Immigration Officer. VII Green conical 10␥ 23.5' 14␥ 44.5' FL.(4) G. 10 secs. 2.6
1 Gendarme. VIII Red cylindrical* 10␥ 29.5' 14␥ 43.9' FL.(3) 10 secs. 6
1 Health Officer.
1 Coast Guard Officer. * Sea Buoy No. VIII is referred to as the Pilot Buoy.
2 Customs Officers. Rio Nunez Transit: The channel from the mouth of Rio Nunez to the
1 Loading Master. Bauxite Loading Wharf (B.L.W.) at Port Kamsar is 17 km. in length and
2 Marine Inspectors (ANAM). 120 m. minimum width and is well marked by 23 light buoys. The channel
1 Oil Pollution Inspector. is subdivided into an inner and outer channel, the bottom of which
1 Radio Inspector. consists of mud and sand.
The following documents are required: The whole channel, starting from Buoys No. 1 and No. 2, up to the
2 Narcotics Lists. Bauxite Loading Wharf (B.L.W.), has a depth from 9.00 m. below
1 Vaccination List. reference data level (R.D.L.), which is defined at +0.15 m. above the
1 Maritime Declaration of Health. lowest water registered.
8 Crew Lists. Turning Basin: The turning basin for inbound vessels is dredged to a
8 Passenger Lists (if any on board). minimum of 7.00 m. below R.D.L. and extends Westward, 360 m. from
1 Crew Declaration (Personal effects) List. the Bauxite Loading Wharf, the bottom is mainly mud and has good
1 Stores List (including all soft drinks). holding ground.
4 Last Ports of Call Lists (Inward cargo vessels only).
12 Manifests of Cargo (Inward cargo vessels only). PILOTAGE: Pilotage service is compulsory for all vessels over 150 ft. LOA.
2 Bills of Lading (Inward cargo vessel only). Vessels under 150 ft. LOA will also be required to have a Pilot aboard on
Notice of Readiness (Ore Carriers only). their first calls, but may be exempt thereafter by consent of the Harbour
To ensure the best possible turn-round for general cargo vessels, complete Master and approval of the Port Director.
sets of the required cargo documents should be made available to the Pilots are supplied from the Director’s Office. Pilots board vessels in the
authorities by hand of the ship’s Master. Delays have been occasioned by designated waiting area (See ‘‘Approaches’’). When conditions are
the late arrival of documents sent by post. It would be of help for the ship’s unfavourable for a Pilot to board the vessel at the designated area, the Pilot
Master to send hatch distribution and the amount of refrigerated cargo, if will pass instructions by VHF radio, and the vessel will follow the pilot boat
any, at the same time as ETA. in until conditions are suitable for boarding.
During the vessel’s call, you will receive the following officials: Pilot boats are fitted with VHF radio and can be contacted on Channel 16.
2 Merchant Marine Surveyors (ANAM). Arrival: The best location for the vessel to await the Pilot is one nautical mile
1 Telecommunication Surveyor. South of Sea Buoy No. VIII, now renamed Pilot Buoy. Do not go North of
They will check the following Certificates: this position before receiving the Pilot on board so as to allow the loaded
Cargo Ship Equipment Certificate (including life raft). ship leaving a safe route, and for the Pilot to be in a good position for entering
Load Line Certificate. the channel. The loaded ship has priority and it is recommended to pass her
Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate. ‘‘green to green’’.
Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate. Most of the ships arriving at Kamsar have their main deck more then 9.0 m.
Derat Certificate/Derat Exemption Certificate. above sea level, and so have to prepare a combination ladder to comply with
Portable and fixed firefighting equipment must have labels attached, the international regulations.
indicating when they have been last checked and next date to be checked. This combination ladder must be prepared on the starboard side for the
IOPP Certificate. arrival. The lower part of the gangway must be more than 5.0 m. above water
Classification Certificate, Hull and Machinery. level to avoid contact with the pilot boat when coming alongside, and having
International Tonnage Certificate (1969). the pilot ladder 2.0 m. above water level.
In addition for tankers: Departure: One hour before sailing time, the pilot ladder must be prepared
TOVALOP Certificate. on the starboard side, as the Pilot boards from the river side. Then the vessel
Quarantine, Immigration and Customs: Representatives of the departments will have to prepare the ladder on the port side for the Pilot to depart.
board after the vessel has been made fast alongside. The Quarantine Flag ANCHORAGES: See ‘‘Approaches’’.
‘‘Q’’ should be flown by arriving vessels.
MAX. SIZE: Entry: Maximum draft: The maximum draft is: PRATIQUE: Authorities board when vessel is alongside the berth. Yellow
10.0 m. for any vessel entering the Port of Kamsar, straight to the Bauxite fever and Cholera vaccination certificates required.
Loading Berth. PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION: Contact Port by Fax: (871)
7.00 m. + Height of Low Water ␤0.6 m. for vessels going to the inner 1632116 or Telex: (581) 1632116.
anchorage. Note: The port radio station is no longer working.
Departure: Maximum Draft: Departure with maximum draft is 1 hour before VHF: Pilot station on VHF Channels 16 and 12. Watchkeeping hours:
high water. Loading must be completed on time to allow the ship to prepare 0800 – 1200 and 1330 – 1730 on working days.
departure, take off the gangway and single up, on order to let go the last TUGS: Two tugs in service (1␺2,896 h.p. ‘Kakande’ 33 tons B.P. and
line 1 hour before high water.
1␺2,850 h.p. ‘Dougoufissa’ 38.9 tons B.P.).
Calculation for Maximum Sailing Draft:
Height of H.W. ............ BERTHS: Bauxite Loading Wharf: Located 17 km. from the channel
␤ Reduction for 1 hour before H.W. ............ entrance.
␦ Height of water 1 hour before H.W. ............ The area alongside the wharf has been dredged to a depth of 13.5 m.
+ Least channel depth 9.00 m. below R.D.L. Fendering is separate from the wharf proper, and consists of
␦ Depth in the channel ............ a number of single and double flexible steel dolphins which protrude 4 m.
␤ Under-keel clearance 0.60 m. from the face of the wharf.
␦ Maximum loading draft ............ A vessel proceeding to the bauxite wharf will normally swing off the berth
and make fast port side to, heading seaward, during the flood tide. If the
The maximum loading draft will be between 11.90 m. for neap tide and berth is occupied the vessel will be anchored in the turning basin to await
13.80 m. for spring tide, depending on the day vessel will finish loading. the berth.
Air Draft: The maximum air draft is given in the tide tables (not reproduced).
There is a single loading berth at the wharf. The longest vessel berthed
Air draft 19.52 m., height of HW.
Consider the height of the HW when going alongside. had a LOA of 229 m., which is considered to be the maximum length
permissible.
DENSITY: 1007 – 1028, depending on season. The mobile shiploader has a travel of 165 m., and an outreach of 21 m.
RESTRICTIONS: Pilots are now berthing ore carriers of any size (up to from the outside face of the fendering. It is rated at about 4,000 tonnes/hour.
229 m. LOA, which is the largest size of ship calling at Port Kamsar) during Loading: The draft survey is generally carried out when the ship is waiting
flood tide. at the inner anchorage.
ARRIVAL: Masters are required to send ship’s ETA, addressed to Port When going alongside, the ship must be deballasted as much as
Kamsar Agent and/or Shipping Superintendent C.B.G., through Port Kamsar permissible allowing for the safe manoeuvre and air draft restrictions (See
Satellite Station, 7 days, 5 days, 3 days and 1 day before arrival at Port ‘‘Max. Size’’). The first hold to be loaded must be open, and the gangway
Kamsar. on port side ready to be lowered.
APPROACHES: Weight of Bauxite Is Determined at Port Kamsar:
Approaches to Rio Nunez: Vessels bound for Port Kamsar will find there are 1. By the ship’s deadweight only, if:
few natural features to aid a landfall. The most prominent feature is Cape (a) there is no weightometer available or,
Verga situated to the Eastward of the Rio Nunez entrance. This cape can (b) there is material on the ship loading conveyor before or after loading;
be observed by radar at a distance of approximately 30 miles. At present the or
light on Cape Verga is unreliable.

See guidelines for compiling and submitting information (page xi) 1117
GUINEA Port Kamsar
2. If a Weightometer Available: FRESH WATER: Available in limited quantity on an emergency basis.
(a) By the weightometer reading if it differs by less than 0.5% from the ship PIRACY: Acts of piracy have taken place at Conakry.
deadweight survey;
(b) By the average between ship’s deadweight survey and weightometer STOWAWAYS: With the refugee situation, and to help the local authorities
reading if the difference is between 0.5% and 2% or, and Government departments, we are asking your cooperation in the
(c) By the ship’s deadweight survey if the difference is more than 2%. following manner:
1. Whether at anchor or at berth, do not leave your pilot ladder or any rope
Stowage factor of the bauxite is about 28 cu.ft./long ton or 0.79 cu.m./tonne. hanging over the side. We have noted some stowaways climbing on board
Bauxite vessels sail from Port Kamsar during the flood tide. Maximum on the anchor chain.
departure draft is regulated according to tidal conditions. 2. Do not allow fishermen, visitors or salesmen on board, have a crew
In order to improve the production and to load one ship per tidal day, the member as guard at your gangway all the time.
loading can be shortened by up to 5,000 tons. The ship’s Master should take 3. Make regular inspections of your ship, by your crew.
into account this possibility, so that the vessel will not sail with an 4. Three watchmen are supplied by the port on the ship’s account. They
unfavourable trim, and keep in mind that 1.5 hours before H.W., the loading stay on deck during the whole call.
can be stopped, enabling ship to leave 1 hour before H.W. 5. Before sailing time, please have one of your officers conduct a search
Mooring: Due to the extremely strong ebb tidal flow: inspection of your ship.
1. The following mooring is highly recommended: We hope that these recommendations and explanations help you, and we
Forward: 6 head lines and 2 springs. wish you a pleasant stay at our port.
Astern: 8 stern lines and 2 springs. Signed: Port Technical Director Port Director
All these lines must be floating ones, in good condition, of similar type, TIME: GMT.
and of the same strength.
2. On arrival, one head stern line and spring line shall be sent first fore LOCAL HOLIDAYS: New Year’s Day (1st January); Second Republic
and aft, for safety, quickness and efficiency. Then the mooring operation Day (3rd April); Labour Day (1st May); Assumption Day (15th August);
is conducted as suggested by the Pilot, under the Master’s responsibility. Independence Day (2nd October); Christmas Day (25th December); Easter
3. It is imperative that all lines, in the same direction, be heaved tight, to Monday (variable date); Tabaski (variable date); Ramadan (Id il Fitri) (variable
an even tension to ensure that relevant stresses are evenly distributed. date); Maouloud (variable date).
4. All lines must be well secured, and made fast on bitts. If the lines are All Sundays are also declared Public Holidays. The President may also,
on winches, then the winches must be fully braked. Self-tensioning at his discretion, declare any other day to be a Public Holiday.
winches must not be used in the automatic mode. If the brakes are not The loading of bauxite is generally continued without stoppage for Public
very good, even these lines must be made fast on bitts. Holidays.
5. During the vessel’s call at the berth, half an hour before each H.W., the General cargo will not, except in special circumstances, be worked on any
lines must be heaved again and made fast, in the way described above, of the above named Public Holidays. All other Public Holidays are normally
beginning with all the stern lines and forward springs, and then if worked.
necessary the head lines and stern springs. NOTICES: From Port Management, Port Kamsar.
Previous experience has shown that no attempt should be made to adjust To: All Masters.
or tension stern lines during an ebb tide. Date: December 1994 (Updated March 1998).
It is essential, and under the Master’s responsibility, to keep the greatest Dear Captain,
caution at all times and ensure that a competent crew member is on In order to help you understand the various formalities and Government
deck at all times to monitor the mooring lines and advise the Master Officals boarding your vessel, please find the following information:
should abnormal conditions develop. Sufficient crew members should On your berthing at Kamsar, the following Officials will come onboard:
also be available at any time of the day or night in case of emergency. (A) 2 Agents from They are your Agent, acting to protect your
6. It is an established practice that during spring tides (i.e. the tide of a OFAB Agency interest. They are identified by an OFAB badge
height of 5.0 m. in rainy season, or 5.5 m. in dry season), a Pilot will (Port Authority) with their names, number and photograph.
stand by on board to assist the Master during ebb tides. In addition, 1 or (B) 1 Policeman Identified by his dark blue uniform, no badge. He
2 tugs will remain alongside on the starboard quarter to assist in keeping (Immigration) checks Passports and Crew List. Crewmen
the ship alongside by pushing throughout ebb tides quoted above. leaving to go ashore will leave their Passports
This service is given free of charge. with the policeman, who will give them a shore
Throughout the ebb tides, when Pilot is on board, the vessel’s engines pass. Crew members must have their shore
must be on stand-by readily available. passes in their possession when ashore.
This additional service by tug/tugs and Pilot is provided solely to assist (C) 1 Gendarme Identified by his khaki uniform. He does the same
the Master and in no way diminishes the Master’s responsibility or job as the police, but also checks for firearms.
liability. The gendarmerie is generally responsible for port
7. Except for periods during spring tides listed above, if for any reason, the security, as well as installations and personal
Master requests the service of 1 or 2 tugs, this will be for the ship’s safety.
account. (D) Quarantine: Dr. Macauley issues Free Pratique Certificate.
8. On departure, while singling up, the following mooring lines must always (E) Coast Guard: Identified by a khaki uniform. He inspects engine
be kept tight: room cleanliness, oil debris and issues a
Forward: 2 head lines. certificate.
Aft: 2 stern lines on winches, and one spring line. (F) Customs Identified by a khaki uniform. They inspect
All these lines must be single lines. (2 persons) provisions, bonded stores and ship’s
It is dangerous to slack these lines before the order of ‘let go’ is given, accommodation.
as this may result in the ship moving off the berth, making it impossible (G) CBG Shipping He wears a CBG badge. He handles loading
for the mooring men to let go the lines. Department program and N.O.R. acceptance.

General Cargo Wharves: There are 2 small general cargo wharves located After this group, at boarding, you will also receive the following Officials:
at the entrance to the Dougoufissa Creek. One, called ‘‘Quai Francais’’, where (H) 2 Merchant Marine They will be identified to you by your OFAB Agent.
vessels of up to 100 m. LOA with a maximum draft of 6 m. may berth. As Inspectors (ANAM) They inspect ship’s certificates (including liferafts)
there is only 3.5 m. at Lowest Low Water (LLW), these vessels will be aground and will deliver an inspection certificate.
at low water periods. (I) Telecommunication He inspects telecommunication equipment and
‘‘Quai Francais’’ is equipped with a heavy lift crane/derrick with a maximum Inspector (PTT) certificates. He will give you a permit, allowing you
S.W.L. of 110 tonnes. to use your Radio/Satcom station during your stay
Safe Working Loads are as follows: in port.
Radius of Derrick Lifting Capacity Height under Hook Should you receive anybody after that, who claims to be Government
18 m. 110 tonnes 27 m. Officials, please call your Agent immediately on Channel 16, or the Harbour
26 m. 75 tonnes 23 m. Master or the Port Management. We are all on Channel 16, and we will send
32 m. 45 tonnes 11 m. you somebody to help clarify the purpose of the Official’s visit.
The derrick is also equipped with a secondary hook with a capacity of In any case, if you are in doubt of anything or you receive any demand
20 tonnes. which you do not like, please call us on VHF Channel 16, we are here to
One 200 ton barge is available for loading and discharging in midstream. serve you.
The second quay cannot accommodate cargo vessels. WEATHER/TIDES: Wind/Weather/Tide: In the Rio Nunez approach area
TANKER FACILITIES: Facilities for the discharge of petroleum products waves up to 4.0 m. can be encountered. At the entrance to the fairway or
are also available on the bauxite wharf. channel they are generally less than 1.0 m. high during the rainy season,
This operation is done with sets (4 sections of 8 m. long) of removable and less than 0.5 m. high in the dry season. Waves and swell in the inner
8 in. flexible hoses. For the unloading of the 3 products (Bunker ‘‘C’’, Diesel channel and harbour area are generally very moderate.
Oil and Gasoline), 4 sets of hoses are foreseen and of the four, two are used The tide, in the the proximity of the buoyed channel, runs N.N.E. and S.S.W.
only for the unloading of the Bunker ‘‘C’’, one for the unloading of the Diesel at 2.5 knots under normal conditions, but can reach 4.5 knots during Spring
Oil, and the other for Gasoline. tides in the rainy season.
The Bunker ‘‘C’’ hoses feed a 16 in. line, the Diesel Oil hoses an 8 in. line The flood tide runs parallel with the line of the bauxite loading wharf at a
and the Gasoline hoses a 6 in. line. Back pressure on the above lines 10 bars speed of up to 4 knots. The ebb tide, augmented by water coming out of the
for the bunker ‘‘C’’ and 9 bar for the others. Dougoufissa Creek, runs through the bauxite wharf at an angle of
Storage facilities on site: Bunker ‘‘C’’ tanks 1␺7,000 cu.m. and approximately 20␥ at a speed of up to 7 knots on spring tides in the rainy
3␺10,000 cu.m. season, tending to set the vessel off the wharf. It is therefore absolutely
Diesel Oil tanks 3␺3,000 cu.m. essential to tend moorings to an even tension, particularly on the stern of a
Gasoline (petrol) tanks 2␺1,400 cu.m. loading vessel.
The density of the Rio Nunez at the bauxite loading wharf varies between
BALLAST: For any vessel, only clean ballast to be discharged. No tank 1007 (rainy season) and 1028 (dry season) at high water.
cleaning or pumping of bilges whilst the vessel is in port or its approaches, Port Kamsar has a typical tropical climate, which is characterised by two
all the way from Sea Buoy No. 2 to berth. separate seasons.
Vessels are required to discharge maximum possible ballast to reach the Rainy season from June to October
permissible air draft. Maximum rainfall is during July and August, mainly at night.
WASTE DISPOSAL: Not available. Relative humidity is 70% to 80% during the day and 90% to 95% at
SLOPS DISPOSAL: Not available. night.
MEDICAL: Hospital facilities at Port Kamsar are available only on an Temperatures range from 17␥C to 38␥C, with an average of
emergency basis. between 20␥C to 28␥C.

1118 Readers are encouraged to send updates and additions (page xi)
Port Kamsar GUINEA
Wind conditions Variable from between South and West, Force 3 to
6 Beaufort Scale. Possible tornadoes from between
North and N.E. with wind reaching Force
10 Beaufort Scale for short periods.
Dry season from November to May
Little rainfall.
Relative humidity is 30% to 50% during the day, and 80% to 90% at
night. There is often coastal fog in the mornings.
Temperatures range from 15␥C to 42␥C, with an average of
between 20␥C to 35␥C.
Wind conditions Light breezes from the Southwest to West, Force
1 to 3 Beaufort Scale.
CONSULS: See ‘‘Conakry’’.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Conakry Airport is about 280 km. from Kamsar
(approx. 3 hours by road).
There are daily services to/from Europe.
SHORE LEAVE: Crew members are granted shore leave. Shore leave
passes are issued by Immigration Officer on ship’s arrival.
SEAMAN’S CLUBS: None.
GENERAL: Stores: Provisions are scarce and therefore not available to
calling vessels.
Gangways: Every vessel alongside any wharf must provide and tend a safe
gangway provided with guide ropes and safety net. Such gangway should
be effectively illuminated during the hours of darkness. At the top of the
gangway a lifebuoy with a rescue line must be available.
For vessels berthing at the bauxite loading quay, the gangway must be
swung out and ready to lower on the jetty as soon as the ship is fast alongside
(the fenders project 4 m. from the berth), so as to be clear of the loader rails
and to allow unrestricted travel of the loader.
A gangway extension platform will be provided by the Port Authority to
make access to the vessel safer. While using the platform it is the ship’s
responsibility to take care of it.
Port Director’s Office: The office of the Port Director is solely responsible for
the operation of Port Kamsar, which includes the provision of Pilotage, tugs
and launches.
The Office acts as sole Agent for all vessels calling at Port Kamsar,
including the normal ships business functions performed by ship’s Agents.
SHIPMASTER’S REPORT: July 1991.
Approaches: When the vessel is in the River Nunez approaches care should
be taken as the Racon on Gonzalez Rock does not work at night.
Vessels enter on the flood tide until 1 hour before H.W.
Pilotage: There are 3 pilots available and in our case the same pilot was
used for entering and sailing. The pilot was very competent and spoke good
English.
Once the vessel is berthed the pilot will determine the sailing draft.
Berthing: When the vessel arrives at the turning basin it is turned to port and
the port anchor is let go. The vessel is berthed port side alongside (head
out) with the assistance of a powerful tug.
When mooring, it is necessary to use many lines, especially aft, due to
the strong ebb tide (5 knots) during the rainy season (June to November).
The tide sets at an angle across the vessel’s stern, thereby setting the
vessel off the quay.
Due to tide changes, mooring lines must be tended carefully at all times.
The pilot advised that a vessel broke her lines and drifted to the middle of
the river because they were not tended properly.
Loading: There is one bauxite berth with good fenders.
Due to the fast rate of loading (about 3,000 tonnes/hr.), it is necessary for
the vessel to deballast quickly. Vessels must enter with maximum ballast
onboard and air draft must not exceed 13.5 m.
Vessels sail one hour before H.W.
In addition to the bauxite berth there is a small commercial berth with a
crane of 125 tonnes capacity.
Quantity loaded is determined as follows if a weightometer is available:
(1) By weightometer reading if the ship’s figures and shore figures differ
by less than 0.5% from the ship’s deadweight survey.
(2) By the average between ship’s deadweight survey and weightometer
if the difference is between 0.5% and 2%.
(3) By the ship’s deadweight survey if the difference is more than 2% (in
our case the difference was 4.5%).
Fresh Water: Fresh water is not available.
Stores: It is possible to obtain fresh tropical fruits, vegetables and fish.
AUTHORITY: Direction du Port, CBG - Port Kamsar, P.O.Box 523,
Conakry, Guinea. Via Satellite: Tel: +224 (871) 163-2117. FAX: +224 (871)
163-2116. Telex: (581) 1632116. Cables: OFAB-Kamsar. Contact: Captain
Aliou Thiam, Port Director (Email: aliou.thiam@cbg-guinee.com). Captain
Karim Diallo, Harbour Master (Email: abdoulkarim.diallo@cbg-guinee.com).
Europe Contact: OFAB-Direction du Port Kamsar, c/o Boke Service Co.,
100 Boulevard du Souverain, 1170 Bruxelles, Belgium. Tel: +32 (2)
674-7711. Fax: +32 (2) 660-0203. Telex: 846-26549.
U.S.A. Contact: OFAB-Direction du Port Kamsar, c/o Halco (Mining) Inc.,
National City Center, 20 Stanwix St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222-4801, U.S.A.
Tel: +1 (412) 323-8400. Fax: +1 (412) 237-3255. Telex: 6848055.

See guidelines for compiling and submitting information (page xi) 1119